Doctors remind people to stay active, promote heart health

TRENTON — With hints of spring peaking through the snow-packed clouds, many Mercer County residents are being reminded of their New Year’s resolution to be healthier in 2014.

March not only marks the start of Spring, but is also designated as National Nutrition Month. Along with good nutrition, it is important to stay active to keep your heart and body healthy.

“Studies show that nearly 80 percent of cardiovascular disease may be prevented if people start taking better care of themselves,” notes Dr. Erol Veznedaroglu, director of the Capital Institute for Neurosciences at Capital Health and a member of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association’s Central and Southern New Jersey Board. “Exercise is an effective way to lower your risk for heart disease and stroke because it counters conditions including obesity, high blood pressure, poor cholesterol levels and poor lifestyle habits.”

The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association have released several announcements recommending various ways to keep healthy no matter your life style.

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“The great thing about exercise is that you don’t have to be a marathon runner in order to gain benefits,” continues Dr. Veznedaroglu. “Doing simple exercises for 10 minutes three times a day have shown to reduce blood pressure, increase immunity, lower stress and improve cholesterol levels. The key is to begin. If you aren’t doing any form of exercise, start by doing something. And if you are doing a little bit of exercise, try to add in a little bit more.”

Exercise is known to prevent heart disease and stroke, the No. 1 and No. 4 killers of all Americans. Finding time to work out might seem impossible, but the health benefits are worth it.

Rickeema Potter, works as a clerk at Department of Labor and she achieved a healthy weight, by relying on healthful eating and walking. “I lost 100 pounds and I feel good, I recommend to everybody to walk it is free and makes you feel well.” Potter said.

The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association say that heart-healthy habits such as taking the stairs, skipping dessert and going out for a dance on the weekends will go a long way to helping people becoming healthier.

“Taking the stairs may be one of the easiest ways to sneak in exercise throughout the day. Instead of taking the elevator to your office, opt for the stairs. If you work on a high floor, take the elevator half way and walk the rest. It might seem insignificant, but those 5-7 minutes really do add up,” said the American Heart Association in a press release.